The Washington Center and Delaware State University (DSU) continue their collaboration to fuel DSU students’ exploration of careers and create networks and experiences that will help kick-start their futures.
Since 2007, Delaware State University (DSU), the DSU Office of Undergraduate Research Experiential Learning and Honors (URELAH) and The Washington Center (TWC) have provided transformative professional experiences to DSU students in Washington, D.C.
This summer, five learners from DSU participated in TWC’s Academic Internship Program, an experience which combines living, learning and interning in the nation’s capital. Two of these learners shared their experience with us.
Political science major Faith King spent her summer interning at BIED Society, an international think tank that brings together national security and international policy. Reva Kollie, a legal studies major, interned at the National Veterans Legal Services, which works to ensure that veterans and their families receive the benefits they are entitled to.
The partnership between TWC and DSU allows students to fully immerse themselves in these internships while developing professional skills, building networks and earning academic credit on campus. Their responses have been edited for clarity.
What has been your favorite “only in D.C.” moment?
Faith King (FK): I got to attend a gala at the Italian embassy with my friends from The Washington Center and my internship. We all wore amazing outfits and visited this beautiful venue.
Reva Kollie (RK): I also attended the gala at the Italian embassy! I got to experience a different culture, delicious food, and got to connect with new people.
I have more clarity on my goal to pursue a career in research and have decided to attend grad school in D.C.
Faith King
Tell us about a project you worked on during your internship that has been your favorite, the most challenging, or the most exciting.
FK: At the BIED Society I completed a research project on the history of and improvements to the intelligence community. I want to work in a similar community, so it was fun to write and learn about.
RK: An interesting project for me was research into the history of companies that have donated to or sponsored the National Veterans Legal Services Program. It took me a week to complete and was really helpful for the organization!
How has your experience with The Washington Center impacted your career goals?
FK: I have more clarity on my goal to pursue a career in research and have decided to attend grad school in D.C.
RK: This experience has helped give me more experience in research and other skills that will empower me in my future career goals.
Overall, I loved D.C. and will hopefully consider working here in the future.
Reva Kollie
How has this experience shaped your personal growth?
FK: I have talked to many different professionals about their career paths, and that has helped me learn to have more flexible goals.
RK: For the first time in my life, I have lived an independent life away from my family and was able to experience what adulthood is. Overall, I loved D.C. and will hopefully consider working here in the future.
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